SuperSport Unplugged caught up with Italian football legend Gianfranco Zola to reflect on Italy’s run at the Uefa Euro 2024. He spoke frankly about the Azzurri’s potential and their chances at the Euros. Catch all the Uefa Euro 2024 action live on SuperSport.
“We know we don’t have the best team (at Euro 2024), there are teams that are superior to us – England, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal. They are all very strong teams and probably in terms of individuals, they have something more than us. But we know that historically, this competition has taught us it’s not always the team with the best players that won the tournament,” said Zola.
Zola said he draws inspiration from teams like Euro 2004 winners Greece and Denmark (1992 winners), who were ranked outsiders but went on the perform beyond expectations. “We have a possibility if we play well and as a team,” he said.
The former Chelsea star, now serving as vice-president of the Lega Pro, the Italian Serie C football league, also share his tournament predictions with SuperSport Unplugged. His choice of ultimate winners might surprise many!
Zola is widely recognised as one of football’s most talented and charismatic figures. His early career began with Nuorese and Torres, but it was his move to Napoli in 1989 that catapulted him into the limelight. At Napoli, Zola had the opportunity to learn from the legendary Diego Maradona, which significantly influenced his playing style and development.
Zola’s career is decorated with numerous achievements and accolades. His time at Parma, starting in 1993, marked the beginning of his rise as an international star. With Parma, he won the Uefa Cup in 1995, showcasing his skill on a larger stage. However, it was his move to Chelsea in 1996 that truly defined his career.
At Chelsea, Zola became a beloved figure, renowned for his creativity, vision, and technical prowess. During his seven years at the club, he helped Chelsea win two FA Cups (1997, 2000), the League Cup (1998), the Uefa Cup Winners' Cup (1998), and the Uefa Super Cup (1998). In 1997, he was named the FWA Footballer of the Year, becoming the first Chelsea player to receive the honour.
INTERNATIONAL CAREER
While Zola’s international career with Italy didn’t bring as many trophies, he still made significant contributions. He earned 35 caps and scored 10 goals for the national team, participating in tournaments such as the 1994 World Cup and Euro 1996. His international career was marked by moments of brilliance, though Italy’s team achievements during his tenure were limited.
TRANSITION TO MANAGEMENT
Following his retirement as a player in 2005, Zola transitioned into management. His managerial career has seen a mix of successes and challenges. He began with the Italy U21 team as an assistant manager before taking on the role of head coach at West Ham United in 2008. Despite some memorable victories, his tenure was marked by inconsistency, leading to his departure in 2010.
Zola's next notable managerial position was at Watford in 2012, where he led the team to the Championship play-off final in his first season. Although they didn't secure promotion, his attacking style of play won admiration. Zola then managed Cagliari and Birmingham City, with varying degrees of success. He also returned to Chelsea as an assistant manager to Maurizio Sarri in the 2018-2019 season, helping the club secure a top-four finish in the Premier League and win the Europa League.
FOOTBALL AMBASSADOR
As of now, Gianfranco Zola has stepped back from active management and coaching roles but remains deeply involved in football. He is a respected pundit and commentator, offering insights on Serie A and Premier League matches for various media outlets. Zola also engages in ambassadorial roles for Chelsea and participates in charity matches and events, maintaining his connection to the sport and its community.
LEGACY
Zola’s legacy is defined by his exceptional skill, sportsmanship, and the joy he brought to fans around the world. Whether dazzling on the pitch with his creativity and flair or sharing his knowledge as a manager and pundit, Zola’s impact on football remains profound. He is celebrated not only as a player and manager but also as a beloved figure whose contributions have enriched the beautiful game.